Pennsylvania Food Stamps

The Pennsylvania food stamps program is now called the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP in Pennsylvania helps families and households with low incomes receive nutritious food with financial assistance. These households are issued an amount of benefits, which varies depending on circumstances, and these benefits may be used at certain food stores. To receive for food assistance in Pennsylvania, residents must be eligible and must complete an application process with the Department of Human Services (DHS). The DHS oversees a number of county assistance offices (CAOs) in the state, and these CAOs are responsible for determining whether applicants meet the eligibility requirements for SNAP benefits. Food stamps assist households in obtaining food for meal preparation. Purchases made with SNAP food stamps are enacted using Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. To apply for food stamps in Pennsylvania, you must meet all food stamp requirements and follow the CAO's instructions. You may apply for SNAP benefits using a number of available methods, including online and in-person methods. On the application, you should provide as much information as possible about your household's income, size and other circumstances. This will in result the CAO processing your application faster. However, the food stamps program requires more than an application. After you sign up for food stamps, you will also have to complete a SNAP benefits interview with the CAO. If you do not attend or complete this interview, then you will delay the application approval process, which may result in your application being denied. Household members may apply for food stamps in Pennsylvania even if they are not sure if they are eligible. The CAO will make the final determination regarding eligibility. However, no resident should take advantage of the SNAP program, as this may be considered fraud and may be punishable by law. In the following pages, you will learn about SNAP food stamps including eligibility requirements for the program, types of foods you may purchase with benefits, how the amount of benefits is determined and how to renew benefits once you are already receiving them. For comprehensive information about SNAP in Pennsylvania, download our free detailed guide.

What Is the Division of Family and Children Services in Pennsylvania?

The state of Pennsylvania provides services for families and children who are most in need. The division provides resources for free and reduced lunch, food stamps and temporary cash assistance for needy families. To find out if you are eligible for these services, download our comprehensive guide to review the eligibility requirements for each program.

How Can I Apply for Assistance Through the Division of Family and Children Services?

In order to be considered for the benefit programs offered by the Division of Family and Children Services, you must submit an application via an approved method. Additionally, many of the services provided by the division have eligibility requirements that you must meet to obtain benefits. Learn all about the application processes for these programs by downloading our guide.